News

The best plants to attract bumblebees have been revealed, after gardeners across the country (from the Orkneys to the Scillies) used an app to record bee sightings.

Plantlife and the Magnificent Meadows partnership have published the Grasslands Action Plan, calling on government to play a part in protecting ancient meadows and committing to help restore 120,000 more hectares.

It really is a treat to have such beautiful weather, living in the busy city of London, it’s amazing how the mood of the city changes when the sun and warmth are present. The parks are packed, and it reminds me of their importance to city life. It mystifies me why they have become as neglected over the past few decades as they are obviously such an important part of our lives.

Triodos Bank has been named as a leader of a group of ‘vibrant ethical alternatives’ in the UK finance sector by an independent research body. Triodos topped Ethical Consumer’s rankings for several products, including its new personal current account, cash ISAs and ethical investment options.

The German chemical company Bayer is nearing the completion of its purchase of Monsanto, despite concerns held by many. Regulators around the world were concerned at the monopoly and scope of the newly formed mega chemical and pharmaceutical company which produces many of the world's pesticides.

After many years of discussion and negotiation, the revised EU Organic Regulations have been officially adopted.

Research has shown that bumblebee colonies in urban areas not only produce more offspring than those on agricultural land, but have more food stores, fewer invasions from parasitic “cuckoo” bumblebees, and survive for longer.

Whether you grow in an allotment, a small back garden or a balcony, why not join in this exciting research project. Hosted by the University of Sheffield, MYHarvest would like to hear from you. How many potatoes will you dig up? How many bowls of strawberries or beans will you pick?

Looking onto my terrace on a warm summer’s day, it feels good to relax for the first time in weeks. I do have to apologise, I normally come to this blog to speak about my wonderful allotment plot.

Why grow exotic vegetables? Perhaps it's the novelty. Not many growers in this country can put their own sweet potato or chickpeas on the table.